Tribune Opinion: Good work by prosecutors for long sentences in Pierce murder case

The lawsuit was filed Dec. 1 in U.S. District Court on behalf of Jimmy Dean Siler by Cheyenne attorney Scott Homar. It alleges that former Wyoming Livestock Board Director Leanne Correll sought to systematically reorganize, reduce and dismantle the livestock law enforcement division to retailiate against Siler and other male enforcement officers.

EDITORIAL BOARD

The Tribune Editorial Board decides and writes the Tribune Opinion. Its members are:

Most recently, Michael Vassil, 24, of Nunn got 60 years in prison after pleading to second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder.

Prosecutors wanted more, and we can't blame them for that. What Vassil admitted to doing is horrendous and certainly seems to warrant a life sentence.

But at 24, a 60-year sentence is pretty close to being just that. We realize there's a good chance he won't serve the entire sentence, but 60 years isn't exactly a slap on the wrist, either. Even if he just serves most of the sentence, he will leave prison an old man.

And this is far from the only harsh sentence doled out in conjunction with Lewandowski's murder.

Recommended Stories For You

In May, Daniel Meyer was convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison without parole, plus 48 years. Prison sentences of 55 years, 28 years and three years have also been handed out to others involved. And one man, Vassil's father, has yet to stand trial.

We think prosecutors have done a great job of pursuing long prison sentences in this case. We know that won't erase the pain endured by Lewandowski's family, but we hope, as this case nears an end, they are finding some kind of closure.

— Tribune Editorial Board

EDITORIAL BOARD

The Tribune Editorial Board decides and writes the Tribune Opinion. Its members are: